Final answer:
The 'Opposing Viewpoints' resource provides students with comprehensive material for researching various perspectives on debatable issues, enhancing their ability to write argumentative essays and participate in debates.
Step-by-step explanation:
The resource in the library known as Opposing Viewpoints is highly beneficial for students preparing to write argumentative essays or engage in debates. This comprehensive resource, which includes an extensive range of pro/con viewpoint essays, helps in understanding various perspectives on controversial issues and current events. Through over 20,000 essays, statistical tables, and multimedia content, students can delve deeply into their topics, familiarizing themselves with both sides of the discussion. Additionally, this resource offers related full-text periodical articles, primary source documents, and even biographies of social activists, providing a rich base for developing a nuanced perspective on any given argument.
Using tools such as graphic organizers and engaging with partners for debates can further reinforce students' skills in presenting and defending their positions on debatable issues. The practice of researching and writing on opposing sides enables students to think critically, anticipate counterarguments, and use evidence convincingly to persuade their audience of the validity of their viewpoint. Moreover, the experience gained in crafting effective arguments will serve students well in their academic pursuits, as well as their future professional careers.